1. Monochromaticity
A laser produces light of a single wavelength (or a very narrow range of wavelengths).
This means laser light is highly pure and monochromatic, unlike sunlight or light from a bulb, which contains a broad spectrum of colors (wavelengths).
Applications: Spectroscopic analysis, medical uses (e.g., eye surgery), optical communications.
2. Coherence
This is the most important property that differentiates laser light from ordinary light.
Spatial Coherence:
All photons in a laser beam travel in the same direction and are nearly parallel.
This explains why a laser beam can travel long distances without significant spreading.
Temporal Coherence:
All photons have the same phase and remain synchronized over long periods or distances.
This enables interference phenomena and applications such as holography.
Applications: Holography (3D imaging), precise distance measurements, laser interferometry.
3. Directionality / Low Divergence
A laser beam spreads at a very small angle, making it highly directional.
Unlike light from a lamp, which radiates in all directions, a laser beam can be accurately directed over long distances with minimal intensity loss.
Applications: Range finding, material cutting, welding, laser pointers.
4. High Intensity
Although the energy of a single laser photon is not very high, the laser concentrates a large amount of energy into a very narrow beam.
This concentration gives it extremely high power density.
Applications: Laser cutting, engraving, precision surgeries, and high-energy scientific research.
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